AE.1961.0062.0003

Fragment einer männlichen Figur

Statues representing male ancestors also embodied procreation and, being full of supernatural power, they protected the community. It is possible that this fragment of a statue once belonged to a Tabwa chief. The ribbed vertical line on the torso that divides the body into two symmetrical halves evokes the division of the universe and the distinction between men (right) and women (left), and between the strong and the weak. The imitated duiker antelope horns on the chest refer to magical substances that amplified the supernatural power of the statue.

Democratic Republic of the Congo [state]

1875 - 1899/ 1900 - 1925

1961-09-11

Kauf - Missionarissen van Afrika - Witte Paters van Antwerpen